Added: 07/28/2006 |
Sightseeing In and Around Mammoth LakesPerhaps you wonder if there is more to a California vacation than beach bums and ocean views. Maybe you would like to see some rugged countryside away from the beaten path, explore the sights of prehistoric California, or simply see a mountain range instead of an ocean. If so, you are in luck! Mammoth Lakes is a prime vacation spot that has managed to capitalize on its assets, be extremely visitor friendly, and yet eschew the distinction of a tourist trap. Have a look!
Quite possibly the most famous attraction of Mammoth Lakes is the Mammoth Mountain ski resort. With a wooly mammoth as its adorable mascot, this ski area has succeeded in attracting younger skiers as well as the older crowds. After all, there are 28 lifts that will transport you to whichever run you may choose, and the difficulty levels are all present. Perhaps it is this mix of challenging runs and easy slopes that keep it ranked as the best resort by Transworld Snowboarding Magazine. On the other hand, it might be the luxurious eateries, gorgeously designed and decorated lodges, and long ski season that keep it at the forefront of skiers and snowboarders worldwide.
If winter travel is not your cup of tea, or if perhaps skiing is not something you enjoy, do not despair! During the warm months there are wonderful sights to behold around the Mammoth Lakes. Take for example the Devil's Postpile National Monument. Its creation dates back to the lava flows of then active volcanoes and as a result basalt columns have formed in this area. These columns have oddly symmetrical shapes and are a marvel to behold. As a matter of fact, many campers decide to leave their cars behind and hike into this area to set up a camp. This is a great outing with children who will be amazed at the tall columns and repetitive shapes.
Yet did you know that Devil's Postpile is a part of something much bigger which might be considered Mammoth Lakes' crown jewel? As a matter of fact, along with the Ritter Range, 350 miles of hiking trails, and the San Joaquin River Valley, it is a portion of the picturesque Ansel Adams Wilderness area! The famous photographer caught many of his most inspiring moments in these areas, and visitors can follow on his footsteps and see the sights he saw. This makes for wonderful hiking and even mountain biking trips or overnight camping. Of course, you do not want to forget that if you are hiking or mountain-biking, you will always have to stay on the designated trails to avoid erosion and destructing of indigenous flora. Bring your camera, and let your children bring a disposable camera as well; who knows, you might have the next Ansel Adams in your own family and not even know it!
So whether you plan to visit the town of Mammoth Lakes or simply go exploring around the lakes and the mountain areas, you will not be disappointed in your trip to this wonderful portion of the country. As a matter of fact, you will most likely see some familiar sights that before you only beheld on photographs or in travel books and magazines. Why not see the real thing and stand in the footsteps of the photographers yourself?
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